Celebrating UK Women Who Were the First in Their Fields

In 2008, Anita Corbin began First Women, a 10-year project that will mark an anniversary worth celebrating. When her artistic mission ends in 2018, Corbin plans to have captured 100 portraits of 100 U.K. women who were the first to achieve something remarkable in their specific fields. The year 2018 will also pay tribute to the 100-year anniversary of women's suffrage in the United Kingdom.

First Women is not only meant to highlight women's achievements. This significant photography collection is designed to inspire younger generations of women who are trying to find their place in a world where inequality still exists. The photographer's overall vision is “the creation of a legacy for future generations of women to enable them to understand and appreciate the achievements of their forebears – and perhaps even to laugh incredulously that once upon a time women were regarded as second class citizens without a vote.”

Clio Gould, the first woman to lead the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Felicity Aston, the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica.

Sarah Outen, the first woman to row solo across the Indian Ocean.

Reverend Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the first woman to be speaker's chaplain.

Abbey Burton, the first woman to set a British record title of 100% perfect score in Olympic Trap Clay Shooting.

Jane Atkinson, the first woman in the world to manage a blast furnace.

Lt. Becky Frater RN, the first woman to pilot a Black Cat helicopter.

Lady Hale, the first woman to be a Law Lord.

Baroness Helene Hayman, the first woman to be Lord Speaker.

Charlotte Budd, the first woman to ride in the Grand National (1977).

Laura Hirst, the first woman to be a permanent member of the Brighouse and Rastrick Band (formed 1881).